NC urges INDIA bloc leaders to join J&K’s demand for Statehood, constitutional guarantees

New Delhi, India Jul 10, 2026 ALN: The Conference (NC), a prominent political party in Jammu and Kashmir, has called upon leaders from the INDIA bloc and local politicians to join their upcoming protest on July 20, 2026, at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. This demonstration coincides with the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament and aims to highlight the pressing demands for the restoration of Statehood and constitutional guarantees for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The call for unity comes in the wake of significant political changes in the region, particularly following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, which revoked the special status previously enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir.

The NC's president, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, has been vocal about the need for a collective effort among various political factions to address the grievances of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. In a statement, NC leader and legislator Tanvir Sadiq emphasized the importance of transcending political affiliations to advocate for the rights of the people. He stated, "For once, let petty politics take a back seat. This is not about one party or one ideology — it is about reclaiming our genuine constitutional right: the restoration of Statehood. Let us speak with one voice. Let us stand together for Jammu & Kashmir." This appeal reflects a broader sentiment among many in the region who feel that the political landscape should prioritize the welfare of the citizens over partisan interests.

In the lead-up to the protest, Dr. Abdullah reached out to several key figures within the INDIA bloc, including prominent leaders such as Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi from the Congress Party, M.K. Stalin from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Mamata Banerjee from the All India Trinamool Congress, and others. The outreach signifies the NC's desire to forge a united front among regional and parties to amplify their demands for Statehood and constitutional safeguards.

In addition to seeking support from INDIA bloc leaders, the NC also extended its invitation to local political figures, including Mehbooba Mufti of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Sat Sharma, the president of the J&K BJP. The response from various parties has been mixed. PDP spokesperson Mohit Bhan reiterated the party's commitment to unity but indicated that the Political Affairs Committee would deliberate on the invitation before making a decision. He emphasized that their struggle centers on the constitutional rights and dignity of the people rather than political gains.

Calls for Unity and Restoration of Rights

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent cleric and spiritual leader in Kashmir, has also weighed in on the matter. He stated that any political alliance or individual working towards the restoration of the rights of Jammu and Kashmir's people should be approached with sincerity. Mirwaiz highlighted that it is the NC's responsibility to fulfill the mandate given to them by the electorate, which includes restoring the pre-2019 status of Jammu and Kashmir, including Statehood and the provisions of Article 370 and 35A.

Furthermore, Mirwaiz emphasized that the protest should not be limited to the demand for Statehood but should also encompass broader issues such as the rights of political prisoners and the youth who have been incarcerated for extended periods without trial. He pointed out the necessity of addressing the public's yearning for peace and dignity, which can only be achieved through conflict resolution and the restoration of fundamental rights.

Altaf Bukhari, chairman of the J&K Apni Party, has also voiced his concerns regarding the current situation in Jammu and Kashmir. He argued that while the demand for Statehood is valid, it should not serve as an excuse for the stalling of development in the region. Bukhari criticized the current administration for neglecting essential infrastructure projects, including roads and hospitals, and called for the government to resume development works and provide transparency regarding lapsed funds. His remarks reflect a growing frustration among the populace regarding the lack of progress on critical issues affecting daily life.

BJP's Counter-Protests and Political Dynamics

In response to the NC's planned protest, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced its own series of protests across Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on employment issues. BJP leader Sunil Sharma, who serves as the Leader of Opposition in the region, accused the NC of attempting to divert public attention from pressing issues such as corruption and backdoor recruitment. Sharma asserted that the BJP remains committed to restoring Statehood through parliamentary means rather than through protests, indicating a clear distinction in the approach taken by the two parties.

The political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir have been further complicated by the historical context of the region's governance and its relationship with the Indian state. The abrogation of Article 370 was a watershed moment that reshaped the political landscape, leading to widespread protests and dissent among various segments of the population. The demand for Statehood has since become a rallying cry for many who feel that their rights and identities have been undermined.

The implications of the NC's call for unity among regional parties and the broader INDIA bloc are significant. A successful mobilization could potentially shift the narrative surrounding Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the need for political solutions that address the aspirations of its people. Conversely, the BJP's counter-protests may further polarize the political discourse, as both parties vie for public support in a region that has long been marked by conflict and contention.

As the July 20 protest approaches, the outcomes will likely depend on the ability of the NC and its allies to galvanize support and present a cohesive front. The political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir remains fluid, and the events of that day could have lasting implications for the region's future governance and the ongoing struggle for rights and representation. The situation in Jammu and Kashmir continues to evolve, and the actions taken by political leaders in the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the trajectory of its political landscape.